Yogalife Team Yogalife Team

Yogalife Holiday Gift Guide

Share the gift of rest, self-care, and wellness to your loved ones this holiday season. We’ve got a holiday gift guide for you to pick up those last-minute gifts!

🎁 Our Holiday Gift Guide 🎁
The holiday season is upon us, and what better gift to give than the gift of wellness and self-care? If you're looking for the perfect present for the yoga enthusiasts in your life, look no further! At Yogalife Studios Edmonton, We have curated a special gift guide featuring our gift cards, 10-session pass, and our live stream membership.


1. Yogalife Gift Card
Not sure which class, membership, or workshop, your loved one would prefer? Give them the freedom to choose with a Gift Card! It's the ultimate gesture of thoughtfulness and flexibility.


2. 10-Session Pass ($149 on Sale from $179)
Give the gift of yoga that keeps on giving! Our 10-session pass is a fantastic option for yogis looking to deepen their practice. Whether it's a beginner looking to explore various styles or a seasoned practitioner aiming to strengthen their skills, this pass is a gateway to growth. And at the incredible sale price of $149, it's an offer that shouldn't be missed!


3. Live Stream Membership
In a world that's continuously evolving, our live stream membership is the perfect gift for yogis who crave convenience and flexibility. With our live stream membership, practitioners can join in on our yoga classes from the comfort of their own homes. From energizing vinyasa flows to relaxing yin sessions, we offer a wide range of classes to suit every need. It's the perfect gift for those searching for balance amidst their busy schedules.


Make this holiday season memorable for your loved ones with gifts that promote wellness, mindfulness, and personal growth. At YogaLife Studios Edmonton, we have something for everyone, whether they're beginners or experienced yogis.
To purchase any of these gifts, visit our studio or contact our friendly staff. Spread the joy of yoga and give your loved ones the gift of well-being this holiday season. Remember, a healthy body, mind, and spirit are the best gifts of all! Happy holidays! 🎄🌟

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Caren Hui Caren Hui

Exploring the Benefits of Practicing Yoga as a Family

In today's fast-paced world, finding quality time to connect with our loved ones can be a challenge. Practicing yoga as a family not only promotes physical health but also nurtures emotional well-being and strengthens the bond between family members.

In today's fast-paced world, finding quality time to connect with our loved ones can be a challenge. Practicing yoga as a family not only promotes physical health but also nurtures emotional well-being and strengthens the bond between family members.

  1. Cultivating Mindfulness and Presence: Yoga encourages us to be fully present in the moment, and when practiced as a family, it creates a shared space of mindfulness. By engaging in yoga together, family members learn to focus on their breath, body sensations, and the present moment. This shared mindfulness helps to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and foster a deeper connection with one another.

  2. Strengthening Bonds and Communication: Yoga poses and partner exercises provide an opportunity for family members to work together, trust each other, and communicate effectively. As family members support and assist one another in various poses, they develop a sense of unity and cooperation. This shared experience strengthens the emotional bond within the family, creating a safe and supportive environment.

  3. Promoting Physical Health and Well-being: Regular yoga practice offers numerous physical benefits, such as improved flexibility, strength, and balance. When practiced as a family, it becomes a fun and engaging way to stay active together. Family yoga sessions can be tailored to accommodate different fitness levels and ages, making it accessible for everyone. By engaging in physical activity as a family, you not only promote a healthy lifestyle but also inspire each other to prioritize well-being.

  4. Managing Stress and Enhancing Emotional Resilience: Yoga provides powerful tools for managing stress and promoting emotional well-being. By practicing breathing exercises, meditation, and relaxation techniques together, family members learn valuable skills to cope with daily challenges. Family yoga becomes a safe space to express emotions, release tension, and cultivate a positive mindset. These practices can have a profound impact on the overall emotional resilience of each family member.

  5. Creating Lasting Memories and Traditions: Family yoga offers a unique opportunity to create lasting memories and establish meaningful traditions. By engaging in regular yoga sessions together, families create a shared experience that can be cherished for years to come. Whether it's a weekly yoga practice or a special yoga retreat, these moments become cherished memories that strengthen the family bond and create a sense of belonging.

Practicing yoga together as a family is a beautiful way to nurture physical health, emotional well-being, and the bond between family members. It provides a space for mindfulness, communication, and shared experiences that create lasting memories. So, gather your loved ones, roll out your mats, and embark on a transformative journey of togetherness through family yoga. Embrace the power of yoga to strengthen your family's connection and well-being.

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Yogalife Team Yogalife Team

Donations for Q4, 2023: YWCA

Yogalife is donating all net proceeds of our Friday Karma Classes to the YWCA’s Rose Campaign from October to December.

Come move and breathe on Friday evenings 5:30pm Warm Flow (YL 124) or 6:30pm Hot Flow (YL South) for only $5.

From October to December of 2023, all net proceeds from our Friday By Donation Classes will be donated to the Rose campaign with the YWCA.

Yogalife is donating all net proceeds of our Friday Karma Classes to the YWCA’s Rose Campaign from October to December.

Come move and breathe on Friday evenings 5:30pm Warm Flow (YL 124) or 6:30pm Hot Flow (YL South) for only $5.

Since 1907, YWCA Edmonton has been building more opportunity, equity, and choice and for women. Through our counselling services, disability services, youth programming, and Healing Havens, we continue our mission of promoting social progress and equity, helping those in need, and creating positive change in our community. The Rose Campaign runs from November 25 to December 10, spanning the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. As the major annual fundraiser, the campaign seeks to raise critical funds for our violence prevention and recovery programs – support that hundreds depend on every day. Together, we can build a brighter future for women and their families in the Edmonton region.
— YWCA
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Caren Hui Caren Hui

Switching from Mindbody to Momence

New Booking Platform!
Reset your password at https://momence.com/reset-password to get your Momence account set up, passes have transferred over, start booking online through the Yogalife App or on the Schedule page.

We're making a change to our booking platform, effective August 22nd.

Our website will be updated with the new scheduler so you'll be able to book classes from the website.

We will also have a new phone App available for you to download if you prefer booking classes that way. Download here.

You will receive an email to set your new password & access your Momence account, your active passes/memberships will transfer to your new account.

If you don’t see one, you can click here to enter your email that you use for Yogalife to get a reset password link.

If you have any questions, email us (memberships@yogalifestudios.ca) and we’ll help you get things sorted.

Our main reasons for switching:

  • Mindbody hasn’t been able to find a workaround for Apple & Google 30% cut for in-app purchases, so passes & membership purchases have simply been disabled from our app

  • The support from Mindbody is lacking, for you (our clients) but also for us (as studios). We use a lot of workarounds to make things work in Mindbody and we’re looking for a platform that doesn’t need us to troubleshoot software issues.

  • Complicated class booking process. Too many steps. Login issues.

Momence Features

  • Video On Demand Library will be seamlessly integrated and you'll have automatic access based on your membership, look out for new classes & course content.

  • Our Live Stream classes will also be easier to locate & book as well.

  • 'Community Section' - a space for students to engage with each other and where we'll keep you updated on news and events happening in studio.

  • Better App experience, more user friendly.

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Wellness, Zen Habits & Inspiration Caren Hui Wellness, Zen Habits & Inspiration Caren Hui

Mindfulness, Yoga, and Setting Boundaries: Finding Balance in the Digital Age

One powerful way to incorporate mindfulness is through the practice of yoga. Yoga combines physical movement with breath awareness, allowing us to synchronize body and mind. By focusing on the sensations of our body as we move through different poses, we can bring our attention away from our phones and social media and into the present moment.

In today's fast-paced and hyper-connected world, finding moments of peace and stillness has become increasingly challenging. We are constantly bombarded with notifications, social media updates, and digital distractions that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves. However, with the practice of mindfulness and yoga, we can cultivate a sense of awareness and set healthy boundaries with our phones and social media, allowing us to find balance and reclaim our well-being.

The Power of Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of bringing our attention to the present moment without judgment. It involves being fully aware of our thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings. By incorporating mindfulness into our daily lives, we can develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and a greater ability to stay grounded amidst the chaos of the digital world.

One powerful way to incorporate mindfulness is through the practice of yoga. Yoga combines physical movement with breath awareness, allowing us to synchronize body and mind. By focusing on the sensations of our body as we move through different poses, we can bring our attention away from our phones and social media and into the present moment.

Setting Boundaries with Your Phone: While our smartphones are incredibly useful tools, they can also be major sources of distraction and stress. To set healthy boundaries with your phone, consider implementing the following strategies:

  1. Establish "Phone-Free" Zones: Designate certain areas or times in your daily routine where the use of your phone is off-limits. For example, you might decide to keep your phone out of the bedroom to create a peaceful sleep environment or institute a "no phones at the dinner table" rule to encourage mindful eating and meaningful conversations.

  2. Practice Digital Detoxes: Set aside specific periods of time, such as an hour or even an entire day, when you disconnect from your phone and social media. Use this time to engage in activities that promote mindfulness, such as going for a nature walk, journaling, or practicing yoga.

  3. Mindful Notifications: Take a moment to assess which notifications on your phone are necessary and which ones are simply distractions. Consider turning off non-essential alerts and only allowing notifications from critical apps or contacts. This will reduce the constant interruptions and allow you to focus more on the present moment.

Embracing Social Media Mindfully: Social media platforms have become integral parts of our lives, but they can also have negative effects on our mental well-being.

Establishing Boundaries: To develop a healthier relationship with our phones and social media, setting boundaries is crucial.

Here are some practical tips:

a. Create Tech-Free Zones: Designate certain areas in your home, such as your bedroom or the dining table, as tech-free zones. This allows you to disconnect and be fully present in the moment.

b. Set Intentional Phone Usage: Determine specific times throughout the day when you will check your phone or engage with social media. Create a schedule that works for you, allowing for dedicated phone-free periods.

c. Mindful Social Media Consumption: When using social media, be intentional about the content you consume. Unfollow accounts that don't align with your values or cause negative emotions. Use the mute or unfollow features to limit exposure to content that may trigger stress or overwhelm.

d. Practice Digital Detoxes: Occasionally disconnecting completely from your phone and social media can do wonders for your mental and emotional well-being. Set aside regular periods, such as a day or weekend, to engage in offline activities and recharge.

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Injury Prevention & Health Yogalife Team Injury Prevention & Health Yogalife Team

The benefits of yoga for golfers! Including 5 poses to help your swing!

Yoga and golf may seem like very different activities at first glance, but they actually have a lot in common!

Both require a great deal of focus, balance, and flexibility, and both can be physically and mentally challenging. That's why yoga can be such a great complement to golf, helping golfers to improve their game and prevent injury.

Yoga and golf may seem like very different activities at first glance, but they actually have a lot in common!

Both require a great deal of focus, balance, and flexibility, and both can be physically and mentally challenging. That's why yoga can be such a great complement to golf, helping golfers to improve their game and prevent injury.

Below are some of the way yoga can benefit your body & golf game!

Improved Flexibility

One of the main benefits of yoga for golfers is improved flexibility. Golfers need to have a wide range of motion in their hips, shoulders, and spine to make a full swing, and yoga can help to improve flexibility in all of these areas. By practicing yoga regularly, golfers can increase their range of motion and achieve a fuller, more effortless swing. This can help to increase clubhead speed and accuracy, leading to longer and more precise shots.

Better Balance

Another key benefit of yoga for golfers is better balance. Golfers need to maintain their balance throughout the swing, and any loss of balance can lead to poor shots or even injury. Yoga helps to improve balance by strengthening the muscles in the legs and core, as well as improving proprioception (the body's sense of where it is in space). By practicing yoga poses that challenge balance, golfers can improve their stability and consistency on the course.

Reduced Injury Risk

Golf can be hard on the body, especially for those who play frequently. The repetitive motion of swinging a club can lead to overuse injuries in the shoulders, wrists, elbows, and back. Yoga can help to reduce the risk of these injuries by improving flexibility, balance, and strength, as well as promoting proper alignment and posture. By practicing yoga regularly, golfers can keep their bodies healthy and prevent injury.

Stress Relief

Golf can be a stressful game, especially when you're trying to hit that perfect shot. Yoga can help to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and mindfulness. By focusing on the breath and staying present in the moment, golfers can learn to stay calm and centered on the course, even when things aren't going their way.

Getting Started with Yoga

If you're a golfer who's interested in trying yoga, there are many ways to get started.

Many yoga studios offer classes specifically for golfers, which focus on poses that are beneficial for the golf swing. Alternatively, you can start practicing yoga at home with online videos or apps.

At Yogalife studios we offer various classes for all preferences, these classes will incorporate some or all of the below poses. We recommend checking out a Vinsaysa flow class or a Yin class which poses are held for a longer period of time.

If you cannot make it in studio - check out our Video on Demand platform!

A few benefical yoga poses for golfers include:

Downward-Facing Dog: This pose helps to stretch the hamstrings and calves, as well as the shoulders and spine.


Warrior II: This pose strengthens the legs and core, while also stretching the hips and shoulders.



Child's Pose: This pose is great for relaxation and stress relief, and can also help to stretch the back and hips.




Tree Pose: This pose improves balance and stability in the legs and core.



Triangle Pose: This pose stretches the hamstrings and hips, as well as the spine and shoulders.


This pose features a cork block to assist with balance & improving form while feeling the full benefit of this pose!

Purchase Here


Yoga and golf may seem like an unlikely pair, but they actually have a lot in common. By practicing yoga regularly, golfers can improve their flexibility, balance, and strength, as well as reduce their risk of injury and stress. So if you're a golfer looking to improve your game, consider joining us for a yoga class at our South Edmonton studio!

Your body (and your golf swing) will thank you!

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Yogalife Team Yogalife Team

New Membership Structure for January 1st, 2023

New Year, New Membership Structure! We are excited to be sharing our new membership structure as of January 1st, 2023. We have developed our membership to offer a variety of options to bet fit your yoga schedule here at Yogalife Studios in Edmonton.

New Year, New Membership Structure !

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Starting January 1st, 2023 our membership structure will be changing!

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU ?

In this blog we will walk you through the new membership structure here at Yogalife Studios in Edmonton.

But wait! What does this mean if I currently have a membership at Yogalife Studios ?

If you have a current membership at Yogalife, do not worry! This will not effect any recurring monthly membership plans. (Unless there is a NEW membership you want to switch too.)

What If I don’t want a membership, and wish to continue with drop-in passes ?

No problem-o ! Drop-in passes will also be remaining the same as of January 1st 2023


Below we have put together a quick walk through on the new membership structure !

When purchasing the Month to Month membership there is no contract! This means your Monthly membership will auto renew, however you can cancel quickly ! This is GREAT for those who aren’t ready to commit to a membership yet.

This Membership does NOT include extensions or pauses

This Membership DOES include ONE guest pass per renewal.

When purchasing the 4 Month membership you have agreed to a 4 month term with Yogalife at a monthly charge of $135.00! This means you will need to re-commit every 4 months ! This is GREAT for those who aren’t ready to commit to for a full year.

This Membership does NOT include extensions or pauses

This Membership DOES include ONE guest pass per month.

When purchasing the 12 Month membership you have agreed to a 12 month term with Yogalife at a monthly charge of $110.00! This means you will need to re-commit every 12 months ! This is GREAT for those who plan on practicing often.

This Membership DOES include two extensions if needed.

This Membership DOES include ONE guest pass per month.


The 6 Month Membership offers you 6 months of unlimited yoga! There are no membership pauses with this one, and you gain 6 guest passes to bring friends.

The 12 Month Membership offers you 12 months of unlimited yoga! There are no membership pauses with this one, and you gain 12 guest passes to bring friends.

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Hot Yoga: What to Expect, Bring and Wear.

How to Prepare

  1. Arrive Well Hydrated

  2. Avoid Heavy Food Before Class

  3. Know Where You Are Going

  4. Arrive On Time

  5. Come Prepared (Review Next Section!)

Yogalife student practicing yoga.

Attending your first hot yoga class can be a bit scary! Here we have included a little guide to help prepare you for your first hot class at Yogalife Studios in Edmonton.


Yogalife student in a forward lung stretch

What to Expect

Expect to sweat! Yogalife Hot Yoga classes are set to 38c and our Yogalife Warm classes are set to 34c.

Depending on the class style you are registered for, it will determine the pace of the class! We recommend checking out our yoga class descriptions here..


How to Prepare

  1. Arrive Well Hydrated

  2. Avoid Heavy Food Before Class

  3. Know Where You Are Going

  4. Arrive On Time

  5. Come Prepared (Review Next Section!)

Yogalife student sitting on a Yogalife black yoga mat

What to Bring

You will need a change of clothes, yoga mat, towel and water bottle. If you don’t have a yoga mat, towel or lock, these can be rented or purchased at our Yogalife Studios location.

graphics of yoga mat, water bottle, towel, lock and key. the essentials to bring with you for your Edmonton Yogalife hot yoga class.

If you feel overwhelmed by the heat at all during practice, don't let your ego get in the way, just come down into Child's Pose or lay down on your back to allow yourself to rest. Then when you're ready, jump back into the practice.

Additional Questions

At our Yogalife studios in Edmonton we do not recommend Heated classes for pregnant women, for children under 14 years of age or for those sensitive to heat. For additional information please reach out to our team!

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Dean Tumibay Dean Tumibay

Adding Props: Meditation Cushions

All photos in this post by Dean Tumibay

All photos in this post by Dean Tumibay

The yoga world is full of many tools that are used to both enhance and support your practice. The “Prop it like it’s hot” series will review a number of different yoga props, and how practitioners can use them as a base for modifying, or in some cases, deepening your asana practice. For this portion of the series, we’re reviewing meditation cushions.

While the name suggests that this prop is used primarily for meditation, we’ll review how a meditation cushion can also help to enhance more active postures for both beginner and advanced practitioners.


Using the cushion for a seated meditation

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Often, meditation is challenging for people who are starting out, as people find that there are too many distractors to tune out. One challenge is finding a comfortable position to sit in for an extended period of time. Meditation cushions in this regard provide a perfect balance between a firm surface that provides appropriate support for the sacrum, but enough compliance to contour to the shape of your pelvis. While many people assume you sit in the middle of a meditation cushion, we actually encourage practitioners to sit on the edge, allowing the cushion to slightly elevate the posterior surface of the pelvis. This encourages a slight anterior pelvic tilt. By sitting on the edge of the cushion, and allowing the hips to roll forward slightly, we encourage the natural curvature of the lumbar spine into lordosis, allowing us to comfortably stack our shoulders over our hips.

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Using the cushion for forward folds

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Tight hamstrings and general tension in the pelvic region is a common ailment in a culture conditioned to sit for long periods of time. In these cases, seated forward folds, such as paschimottanasana as well as baddha konasana with a forward fold can be particularly challenging. As it does with a seated meditation, sitting at the cushion’s edge can facilitate a gentle anterior pelvic tilt, encouraging a soft forward fold while maintaining proper alignment of the lumbar spine. This encourages proper alignment in our forward folds, and prevents the tendency towards rounding the lower back.

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Using the cushion for twists

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The compliance of the meditation cushion allows it to conform to our pelvis, but it’s equally firm nature provides enough support to allow us to remain grounded in our posture. In seated twists, due to tightness in our hips, often times one side of our pelvis will have difficulty remaining connected to the earth resulting in a lopsided seat that is unstable to perform a twist from. With the help of a cushion, we can have an even distribution of weight through our base to allow us to focus on a deeper rotation through our spine.

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Using the cushion for active postures

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Many yoga postures require us to bear weight through our knees, which for many can be an uncomfortable experience. We can maintain the integrity of these postures, such as a low crescent lunge, with our knees propped on a comfortable surface like a meditation cushion that allows us to go deeper into the posture, without having to endure pain during the hold. For deep postures such as the front splits (hanumanasana) or any modified variation, the meditation cushion propped under our back leg allows for support through that limb, but gives space for the pelvis to go even deeper into the asana.

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We have meditation cushions available for purchase at both our south and north locations. If you have experience using meditation cushions or meditation props in your practice, please feel free to email info@yogalifestudios.ca with your experience! If there are any specific props you’d like to see in our “Prop it Like it’s Hot” series, again please contact us via info@yogalifestudios.ca or our various social media streams (twitter, Instagram, Facebook).

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Yogalife Team Yogalife Team

Yoga for Kids at Yogalife

 

Yoga for Children at Yogalife

Something that you may already know are the benefits yoga offers both physically and mentally. However, how about the benefits of yoga for kids?

At our Yogalife studios in Edmonton we do allow children under the age of 14 to attend our non-heated classes with a guardian. For additional information please reach out to our team!

Here are some benefits your little one:

  1. Improves concentration:

    When your child gets used to the physical practice (asana or poses), it can offer improvement to their concentration skills.

  2. Increases flexibility and balance:

    Yoga helps improve flexibility and balance and tones their muscles too.

  3. Improves general well-being:

    Kids who practice yoga regularly can feel both mentally and physically rejuvenated after a yoga session and this helps improves their mental and physical health.

  4. Boosts confidence:

    Yoga offers the ability to create a stronger connection to what your body needs. by adding a regular yoga practice to your child’s schedule, you are providing them with starting tools to connect with themselves which can boost confidence in themselves.

  5. Relaxes their minds:

    Like adults, yoga helps relax and de-stress.

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Prop Specific Prop Specific

Yoga Tune-Up Balls

The Benefits of Adding Self Myo-Fascial Release (SMF) to Your Yoga Practice

Come experience relaxation & increased range of motion. Deep breaths , passive poses, & self myo-fascial release at Yogalife Studios here in Edmonton.

Yogalife has added specific yoga classes such as Hot Yin & Release on Saturday to include the use a lacrosse ball or Tune Up Ball to place, or gently rock over areas of tension in the body. You control the pressure of this 'massage' with body weight.

You will only need to bring your yoga mat, a block & your water to this class. We will provide you with sanitized rolling props.

SMR HELP RELIEVE:

• Stiff Neck & Headaches

• TMJ/Tight Jaw • Frozen Shoulder

• Sciatica & Back Pain

• Tight Hips & Hamstrings

• IT Band Syndrome

• Plantar Fasciitis & Foot Pain … and much more…

SMR HELPS TO IMPROVE:

• Flexibility

• Strength

• Pain Relief

• Stress Reduction

• Increased Energy

Lacrosse balls or Yoga Tune Up Balls provide targeted self-massage trigger point therapy by using specially designed high grip rubber balls and focused movement routines that help penetrate through layers of skin and muscle to massage deeply into your high-tension areas.

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Yogalife Team Yogalife Team

30 Day August Challenge

Thank you to everyone who joined our August Challenge! We hope you had as much fun as we did.

Thank you to everyone who joined our August Challenge! We hope you had as much fun as we did.

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Studio Information Yogalife Team Studio Information Yogalife Team

Goodbye North Yogalife Party

With heavy hearts on June 20th, 2022 Yogalife Studios closed its North Edmonton doors. To say thank you to our northside community for providing us with the best time over the years, we put together a small farewell party. Here are some photos from our final goodbye at the studio.

Goodbye North Yogalife Studio

Tea lounge at Yogalife Studios in Edmonton

With heavy hearts on June 20th, 2022 Yogalife Studios closed its North Edmonton doors. To say thank you to our northside community for providing us with the best time over the years, we put together a small farewell party. Here are some photos from our final goodbye at the studio.

Yogalife Studios farewell sign

While we are sad to see our North Edmonton studio go, we are excited for Yogalife’s future!

 

Presently, we are finalizing the details of our lease for a new studio on 124 Street, close to the Brewery District. There will be parking!

We are working on design plans and getting development permits applied for. We'll likely be 'breaking ground' in September or October, depending on how quick or slow the city works. Once we have a timeline, we'll be posting more about it on our socials and keeping everyone updated through our newsletters.

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Yogalife Team Yogalife Team

Mindfulness Yoga

What is Mindfulness?

It is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present moment—and accepting it without judgment.

Adding Mindfulness to Your Yoga Practice

Two Yogalife Teachers in Edmonton, hands on chest.

What is Mindfulness?

It is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present moment—and accepting it without judgment.

Mindfulness in Practice

You are halfway thru your classes at Yogalife Studios Edmonton. it is difficult, and you have had enough. The poses drag on for what feels like hours, and you are ready to give up. Here is where you can incorporate mindfulness into your yoga practice. By shifting from a reaction to observation, you understand that this discomfort is temporary. This alteration in thinking can offer an entirely different experience to your yoga experience.

Yoga Tip: Hatha Style Yoga Classes in Edmonton at Yogalife Studios

By combining mindfulness into your practice, it pushes you to drive deeper into your yoga practice.

Important Attributes of Mindfulness

  • Trusting the process

  • Letting go

  • Having patience

  • Acceptance

Mindfulness can look different for everyone; it is important to remember not to compare your journey to another.

New to yoga in Edmonton, Yogalife New Student Membership

Have more questions about adding mindfulness to your yoga experience? Reach out to our memberships team at Memberships@yogalifestudios.ca or next time you are attending one of our Edmonton Yogalife studios don’t be afraid to ask your teacher for some helpful tips and advice!

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Rebecca Toronchuk Rebecca Toronchuk

New To Yoga: A Guide to Getting Started

If you are new to yoga read our blog to help you feel comfortable and excited for your first class in studio!

New to Yoga: A Guide to Getting Started

Your first yoga class can be very intimidating (the first couple classes too). Here you will find some tips, information, and recommendations to prepare you for your first class at Yogalife!

 

Want to keep up with Yogalife? join our newsletter!

Benefits of Yoga

Yoga offers a variety of benefits…

  1. Good for your mind

  2. Good for your body

  3. Good for your soul

Here are some more in-depth benefits from yoga. >> Yoga Benefits

What Class Should I Take?

For your first class we recommend you start off with a gentler practice, then you just need to choose the room temperature of the class. The temperatures range from room temperature, Warm (32– 34), Hot (36-38). Here are a few classes to check out at our South Edmonton yoga studio.

Gentle Hatha

A wide range of movements and postures that stretch, strengthen, align, and stimulate all systems of the body using hatha, restorative and yin postures, the use of props and pranayama.

 

Yin

A slow-paced class designed to specifically work the connective tissues of the body. This class consists of holding postures for several minutes to activate and work the fibers of your fascia matrix, ligamental structures and skeletal system. Yin yoga uniquely appeals to those who wish to increase their flexibility and range of motion as well as those interested in increasing bone density and strengthening joints.

And if you’re looking for something with a faster pace for your first class...

Hatha Flow

Includes the same benefits as a traditional Hatha class (variety, stretch, strength, alignment, and stimulation) with the added component of Sun Salutations. Sun Salutations, or flow, involve strength and stamina for the upper body, shoulders, and spine as well as stimulation for the nervous system.

 

Flow

Flow includes the same benefits as a Hatha class (variety, stretch, strength, alignment, and stimulation) with the added component of Sun Salutations. Sun Salutations, or flow, involve strength and stamina for the upper body, shoulders, and spine as well as stimulation for the nervous system.

What to Bring for Class?

Depending on Edmonton’s weather, dress appropriately for getting to and from Yogalife, especially during our cold winters! However here is specifically what you will need for your first yoga class at Yogalife:

  1. Comfortable clothes to practice in.

  2. A Yoga mat *We do offer mat rentals at the yoga studio.

  3. Water

  4. A Yoga Towel *especially if your registered for a hot yoga class.

Yogalife offers change rooms, lockers, plus locks for use as well.

If you have any additional questions about what to bring, please don’t hesitate to contact us either at Info@Yogalifestudios.ca or by phone at (780) 328-3927.

Looking for Yoga props, Mats, and/or towels? Check out our shop!

Registering for Class

After reviewing the Yogalife schedule, it is best you create an account and pre-register for the class. This allows the teachers to know in advance how large the class will be and to make sure you have a spot! creating an account can either be done by our intake form online or though the Yogalife App. Once your account is created, you can purchase the desired pass and book yourself for class.

  1. Create an account

  2. Pre-register for class

Getting to the Studio

Before heading to your first yoga class, make sure you know where you are going. Here is the information for our South Edmonton Studio >> South Studio

Please arrive around 10 minutes early to prepare for class.

Classes begin at the time it is scheduled and students will not be able to attend if late. If you are running late or will not make if, please let us know. However, when you have a moment, please review our late cancel/ no show policy here >> Studio Etiquette

Still have questions? Please check out our Frequently Asked Questions

If you still have additional questions or concerns about attending your first class here at Yogalife, please reach out and we will be happy to help!

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Break It Down: Vinyasa

VINYASA, TRANSLATED:

“To move or arrange in a special way”. It can also mean “movement” or “position of the limbs”.

Written by Kristine Owen Wood | Photographed by Caitlin Varrin

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What is Vinyasa?

One term, many meanings!

Vinyasa, translated:

“To move or arrange in a special way”. It can also mean “movement” or “position of the limbs”. 

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Vinyasa, the style of yoga:

refers to a strong, dynamic, continuously flowing practice which aims to seamlessly integrate movement and breath. a.k.a, ‘Moving Meditation’: The relative quick pace of Vinyasa Flow with its emphasis on matched breath/movement and fluid transitions between poses allows many practitioners to relax habitual thought-loops and enter an embodied “flow state” of being. Same same but different? Styles of yoga at Yogalife which are synonymous with, derived from, or closely related to Vinyasa include “Ashtanga”, “Rocket”, “Sattva”, “Flow”, and the “Yang” portion of “Yin/Yang”. 

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Why break it down?

Vinyasa classes tend to move more quickly than slower styles like Hatha and in order to “keep the flow”, might not always provide as much in-depth alignment instruction. This can sometimes result in confusion for newbies! It can also create a situation where the most often-repeated set of movements are amongst the least fully-understood.

Potency of practice:

Developing a clear understanding of how to approach Vinyasa for your body, through your body, is essential for unlocking the full potential of your “flow state” experience. Below is a step-by-step guide to aid you in this journey!

Vinyasa, the flow of movement:

“Vinyasa” can also refer to a very specific cycle of poses that repeats throughout any of the above-mentioned class styles.

Rise & Shine!

Vinyasa will often appear first in the course of opening Sun Salutations as a method of evenly warming up the body.

The groove that binds us:

Subsequent Vinyasas alternately serve as fire-stokers, neutralizers, palate-cleansers, and an efficient, elegant method of transitioning from pose to pose.

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Full Vinyasa, unmodified 

Click on image for more details!

Half Vinyasa, unmodified

Click on image for more details!


Awesome Mods 

Mythbuster: modifications are not in any way “lesser” the main pose. In fact, modifications are a highly intelligent way to adapt poses to meet your practice where it’s at and ensure that you build the space and strength you need to evolve, sustainably. 
 


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Forward Fold & Halfway Lift  

Place blocks underneath hands = more room to stretch out backs of legs & lift through chest
 

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High Plank >> Low Plank  

Lower knees to floor = more power to practice correct upper body alignment & thus gain strength. Place blocks under hands to create more height & space in plank.

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Upward Facing Dog  

Cobra instead! All of the backbendy goodness without undue strain on wrists, low back, or feet. Blocks under hands  = more space for spine to lengthen & curve.

Downward Facing Dog  

Try Puppy Pose instead! An active version of Child’s Pose (press palms into floor & keep chest & shoulders lifted), it relieves hamstrings and takes pressure out of shoulders and wrists while maintaining energy. Or, place blocks under hands to create more length and space throughout the shape.


Whether you're in that full flow or working with modifications and props, there is a comfortable way to build strength through vinyasa for every yogi!

Listen to what makes your body sing and let that be what guides your practice. 

Namaste

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Caitlin Varrin Caitlin Varrin

Torso Tips: Alignment For Your Upper Body

Creating a solid foundation is the key to aligning and advancing your postures. In this particular example of Warrior 1, the foundation is the feet; that awareness will give way to the freedom, strength and space that comes with proper torso alignment. Take your time to really finesse the details in your body, from the foundation.

Photos by Jenn Clara
Written by Caitlin Varrin

yogalife - torso - alignment

Yoga is a holistic, integrative practice.

Translation: your entire body is on board for your whole practice and works intelligently and systematically to find comfort and balance in every posture.

Often in class you are cued to specific areas of the body - stack your knee over your ankle, draw your shoulders down your back, lengthen through the crown of your head - as your practice matures you are most likely experiencing a full system alignment with these localized adjustments. There is a certain magic that arises in your body when you  experience 360 degree alignment, radiating from your hands and feet, up your legs and arms and inward towards your torso. This intelligence is the way into your body. 


Example:
Virabhadrasana 1
Aligned from the ground up

  • Ground into your front foot evenly

  • Stack your knee directly over your ankle

  • From that grounding and stacking, square your pelvis, maintaining equal pressure between front and back feet

  • Here you will feel the constant push/pull of drawing forward into the front shin as you draw the top of the thigh bone back to maintain a squared pelvis, continuing to apply pressure evenly into the back foot

  • THE FOUNDATION IS SET!

We promise we're getting to the torso! 

Creating a solid foundation is the key to aligning and advancing your postures. In this particular example of Warrior 1, the foundation is the feet; that awareness will give way to the freedom, strength and space that comes with proper torso alignment. Take your time to really finesse the details in your body, from the foundation. 

Torso alignment from the source of the foundation.

With foundation set you can move freely into the torso. We'll continue with the example of Warrior 1 but this tip really applies to all postures! 

 

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  • Find a neutral tailbone and a gentle lift through your lower belly.

  • Engage the front and back lines of the torso towards the midline to create balance (think of drawing your front and back body towards one another with a meeting point at the spine).

  • Encourage your shoulder blades to draw towards one another and gently down the back to create strength.

  • Hug or wrap in at the joints (shoulders, hips) to stabilize the torso and then use directional pressure out to deepen. Draw in to expand out.

  • Stack your shoulders over your hips and breathe to lengthen through the sides of the ribs up out of the waist.


Apply these tips to other postures:

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Utthita Trikonasana | Triangle Pose

  • Align the foundation: feet and bottom hand

  • Stack and engage the legs, creating clear lines from the lower body into the pelvis

  • Ground down through the legs to the foundation, preparing the torso for micro-adjustments

  • Draw your front and back body towards the midline and feel a wrapping sensation around the entire torso from shoulders to hips

  • Lengthen both sides of your waist evenly away from the pelvis and the shoulders draw down your back

  • This is a great posture to use a block, raising up the floor to ensure proper downward pressure through the bottom hand

Sirsasana | Headstand

  • Align the foundation: outer edge of clasped hands, wrists, forearms and elbows

  • Draw lower torso in towards spine to draw strength to the midline as you walk toes towards your face

  • Stack hips clearly over your shoulders

  • Feel the wrapping engagement of front and back body drawing together and lift one or both legs to stack clearly over the torso

  • Continue the wrapping action of the shoulders and upper back as you create directional pressure down through the forearms and all the way up through the inner seam of the legs and out the toes


When you consider this practice by its true definition, "to yolk" or "oneness", it makes very clear sense that you are creating something unique to your entire body. All aboard! 

Find this oneness within each posture by first identifying a clear foundation and experiencing how it relates through each facet of your body and breath.

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Curated Playlists Yogalife Team Curated Playlists Yogalife Team

Spring Into Spring | Playlist

Spring is here! 

Or.. is it summer?

We can't keep track with all of the craziness Mother Nature has been throwing our way, but that doesn't mean that you won't find us soaking in every inch of sun that shines through those Edmonton clouds. Tune into this uplifting playlist for your next at-home yoga practice, or a playlist we've found that we can't stop hitting repeat on. 

 

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Caitlin Varrin Caitlin Varrin

Put Your Best Foot Forward

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Written by Kristine Owen Wood
Photographed by Caitlin Varrin

 


The Foot Story

 

A while back a gal came to my Hatha class with her boyfriend in tow. New to yoga, they were both lovely, eager participants. We soon discovered that the dude had pretty tight feet, to the point where pressing into the tops of his feet in Cobra pose felt next to impossible.

With my background in ballet and working knowledge of connective tissue, especially fascia, I hypothesized that if we front-loaded the Hatha class with some dance-inspired foot conditioning exercises, it could be helpful for the fellow’s feet. So we gave it a shot. 

Lo and behold, that very same day, the gentleman found he was able to do his first Cobra pressing into the tops of his feet.

Conclusion? Foot primers work wonders.

But don’t just take my word for it. Try it for yourself and see. Give these moves a whirl!

 


DO THIS: Foot Flow

If you want to:

  • Open your feet
  • Strengthen your feet
  • Be able to feel all the way
  • down to your toes
  • Reduce foot cramps
  • Improve standing balances
  • All of the above

The idea is to open up the tops and bottoms of your feet and introduce more mobility and space prior to practice. This will have an awakening ripple effect all the way up the leg.


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Runner's Lunge 

  • Use wall for support.
  • Ensure front knee aligns over supporting ankle.
  • Press all corners of back foot evenly into the earth.
  • Experiment with bending back knee, as well as changing angle of back foot (angling outward like Warrior One, and/or angling inward).
     
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Dancer's Warm Up Part One

  • Stand with feet parallel and hips distance width apart. 
  • Lift Right heel to press into ball of foot (emphasize front and back of arch), then lower heel. 
  • Repeat Left, then continue alternating feet. 
  • Next, add knee bend: lift Right heel, bend both knees, straighten both knees, then put heel down. Repeat Left, then keep alternating feet. 
  • Ensure spine remains perpendicular to earth (no bowing or tipping), that inner and outer edges of feet press evenly (no sickling or ‘winging’), and that movement is smooth throughout - not jerky or staccato. 
  • Use wall for support first, then move away from wall to build balance and awareness.
     

Dancer's Warm Up Part Two 

  • Stand with feet parallel and hips distance width apart. 
  • Bend knees, keeping spine perpendicular to earth and shoulders over hips. 
  • Roll up onto balls of feet without losing depth of knee bend, then straighten knees without locking (engage quads to pull up kneecaps). Lower heels slowly (create resistance). 
  • Rise onto balls of feet with straight legs, bend knees with heels still lifted, then roll through feet to lower heels with knees still bent. 
  • Straighten legs and repeat entire cycle of movement a number of times. 
  • Ensure upright spine, aligned knees (not collapsing in or out) and very smooth quality of movement throughout - no popping or jerking. 
  • Use wall for support first, then move away from wall to test balance and control.

Top of Foot Stretch

  • Use wall for support. 
  • Start with feet parallel then cross pointed right foot over left foot. 
  • Align top of foot evenly then bend knees, pressing left knee into back of right calf. 
  • Ensure foot being stretched is evenly long on both sides and not sickling. 
  • Then uncross foot and step into short lunge, pressing top of arch into earth. Keep the top of the foot even and be gentle. Be mindful of too much compression in Achilles area (ankle above heel). 
  • Repeat Left.

Happy Feet, Happy Life

Now go put your best foot forward. Stand on your own two feet. Dip your toe in. Get off on the right foot. Step lively! … And all that other good stuff.
 

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Dean Tumibay Dean Tumibay

Yogalife Celebrates: Earth Day

All photos in this post by Dean Tumibay

All photos in this post by Dean Tumibay

"Green is the prime colour of the world, and that from which its loveliness arises"
- Pedro Calderon de la Barca

April 22 is officially Earth Day! Events are held world wide to celebrate our mother Earth in various fashions, with the main tenet being that we draw awareness to the impact we have on our environment. Earth Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. The concept of creating a day that is solely focussed on the environment was first proposed by Earth Day founder Gaylord Nelson, a U.S Senator from Wisconsin. Around this time, Nelson saw the impact that student-led anti-war movements were having on the political atmosphere at the time, and felt that the same sort of energy could be directed at increasing public awareness around preserving Earth's environment, and draw attention to Earth's growing issues around air and water pollution. By encouraging this movement, his hope was to influence government to be more proactive in addressing the concerns our Earth is encountering.


"More than 1 billion people now participate in Earth Day activities each year, making it the largest civic observance in the world. We work through a combination of education, public policy, and consumer campaigns."

-earthday.org

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It's the small changes by many that make big differences for our world.

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Earth Day is meant to draw awareness of the environmental issues we're facing, but also goes on to suggest changes that can be made at both the individual and population level for fostering positive changes to lessen humanity's ecological footprint. Amongst these suggestions include reducing use of plastic bottles to reduce plastic pollution, planting a tree or donating to plant a tree, and reducing meat consumption. 

The Yogalife Blog staff have looked through Earth Day's "Billion Acts of Green" list, and we're all pledging to follow some of these suggested changes. For me? I'm pledging to never purchase another plastic bottled beverage and make sure I always have my re-usable water bottle and coffee mug on me at all times. I've also made an individual effort to consume less meat than I currently do. 

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Email us at info@yogalifestudios.ca or comment on our various social media channels and let us know how you're celebrating and supporting Earth Day! We'd love to hear your suggestions on how to be more green. 

For more information on Earth Day and their "Billion Acts of Green" campaign, check out their website here:

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